Women In Self Employment (WISE) Project in Timor-Leste

Focuses on the background, objective, strategy, and beneficiaries of the WISE Project in Timor-Leste which contribute to ease the burden of returnees on the host communities' economy through the creation of self-employment opportunities for women potential entrepreneurs in Baucau, Viqueque and Lautem Districts.

Women have traditionally played an important economic role in Timor-Leste and their contribution to production is greater than indicated in official statistics, which often reflect only their primary occupation. Timorese women are less informed than men, have fewer literacy skills, work harder and longer, have minimal access to resources and are less traveled than men. Moreover, women's lack of status, low self-esteem, and lack of literacy skills, financial collateral and mobility are major factors against women starting and maintaining a business.